Glossary
What is obituary?
An obituary is a published notice of a person's death that typically shares biographical details, surviving family, and service information. It may appear in a newspaper or online, and newspapers often charge a fee based on length.
An obituary usually announces the death, summarizes the person's life, lists surviving and predeceased relatives, and gives the date, time, and place of any services, along with memorial or charitable donation requests in place of flowers. A shorter death notice simply states the death and the service details.
Funeral homes often help families write and place obituaries as part of their services. Paid newspaper notices are usually priced by length and can run from modest sums to several hundred dollars in large papers or with a photo, while many funeral home and online memorial pages host one for free.
An obituary differs from a death certificate: the obituary is a public notice that shares a person's life and service details, while the death certificate is the official government record used to settle the estate and claim benefits. For safety, some families limit personal details such as a full date of birth or mother's maiden name in a public obituary to reduce the risk of identity theft.
Related terms
Eulogy
A eulogy is a speech that honors and remembers the person who died, usually delivered at a funeral or memorial service. It is often given by a family member, close friend, or officiant, and may include stories, qualities, and shared memories.
Death certificate
A death certificate is the official government record of a person's death, listing identifying details and the cause of death. Certified copies are needed to settle the estate, claim benefits, close accounts, and arrange burial or cremation.
Memorial service
A memorial service is a ceremony to honor someone who has died, held without the body present. Because it is not tied to the body, it can take place days or weeks later, in any location, and is common after direct cremation or immediate burial.
Visitation
Visitation, sometimes called a wake or calling hours, is a scheduled time for family and friends to gather, offer condolences, and remember the person who died. The body may or may not be present, and it usually takes place before the funeral.
See also
Common questions about Obituary
Sources
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